Underfloor Heating Rayleigh

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Why Underfloor Heating Is Superior

Underfloor heating stands out as a superior heating option for several reasons. It provides even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots and ensuring consistent comfort throughout your space. This system operates at lower temperatures than traditional radiators, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating bills. Underfloor heating is also invisible and space-saving, freeing up wall space that radiators would otherwise occupy. It’s a healthier choice, too, reducing dust circulation and allergens compared to conventional heating systems. Additionally, it’s versatile, compatible with various flooring types, and adds a touch of luxury to any home, enhancing its appeal and value.

Wet & Electric Underfloor Heating Systems

Two popular choices for underfloor heating are wet and electric systems. The best option for your home depends on various factors, such as your property’s structure, current heating setup, and budget.

Understanding Wet Underfloor Heating

• How It Works: Wet underfloor heating relies on hot water pipes installed beneath the floor. These pipes are connected to a manifold, which, in turn, is linked to your Boiler. The manifold and an integrated pump circulate hot water throughout these pipes.
• Temperature Control: The system’s temperature is regulated by a thermostat. You can opt for a single thermostat for the entire house or multiple zones for room-by-room temperature control.
• Versatility in Flooring: This system is compatible with all flooring materials, including wood, carpet, tiles, and stone.
• Installation Varieties: Wet underfloor heating can be installed in various ways. Pipes can be embedded in screed, placed between floor joists, or laid over existing floors.
• Insulation Techniques: When using screed, an insulation layer, often made of Celotex, is placed below the pipes. For low ceilings or suspended floors, insulation is put between the joists, with pipes resting on top and secured by aluminium spreader plates.
• Over Existing Flooring: Insulated floor panels with pre-cut grooves for the pipes are used over existing floors. These panels are designed specifically for different flooring types.
• Cost and Efficiency: Wet systems typically cost more to install but are more energy-efficient and cheaper to run than electric systems and traditional gas central heating.

Understanding Electric Underfloor Heating

• Types of Systems: Electric underfloor heating comes in mat or cable forms. Mats, often insulated, are rolled out across the floor and contain a heat-producing wire.
• Mat Varieties: You can choose from standard mats, ultra-thin foil mats (ideal for carpets and vinyl floors), and screed mats, which are similar to those used in wet systems.
• Area Suitability: Mats are better suited for larger spaces, while cables can heat smaller or irregularly shaped areas efficiently.
• Installation Process: Cables are laid under the floor, covering the entire area, and connected to the mains electricity.
• Cost and Efficiency Comparison: Electric systems are less expensive to install than wet systems but are less energy-efficient and costlier to operate than wet underfloor heating and conventional gas central heating.

Underfloor Heating Installation

Our team of skilled engineers has installed Underfloor Heating systems in homes of all sizes and ages, as well as extensions and new-build homes. Our approach to installation is tailored to each home’s unique characteristics, ensuring the system integrates seamlessly with existing heating systems and floor types.

Underfloor Heating Servicing 

Regular servicing ensures the longevity and efficiency of your underfloor heating system. An annual check involves thoroughly inspecting the pump to ensure it’s functioning optimally and delivering hot water at full capacity. We also check the manifold for leaks and replace worn seals or washers.

Using thermal imaging cameras, we scan the floors to confirm uniform heating and identify any cold spots that might indicate underlying issues.

Repair and Emergency Services

Despite the high reliability of underfloor heating systems, issues such as airlocks or insufficient heating can occur. Our specialised repair service swiftly diagnoses problems using thermal imaging technology. This approach allows us to detect warm and cold areas in the flooring, pinpointing the issue’s exact location.

Common problems like airlocks, which block the flow of hot water in the pipes, are usually simple to rectify. However, the issue might lie with the pump if an airlock is not the culprit. Given that pumps generally have a lifespan of 10-15 years, a drop in performance or complete failure could cause heating issues. Our team is proficient in replacing both pumps and outdated manifolds.

For emergencies like leaks or system failures, our engineers are on call 24/7 (with no call-out charges), ready to provide immediate assistance to ensure your underfloor heating system remains in optimal condition.

Contact Us

Please call us on 01268 350025 to book your free, no-obligation Underfloor Heating installation survey and quote or to book service and repairs.